Media practitioners in Ghana have been urged to strengthen cybersecurity reporting in Ghana as part of efforts to improve digital literacy, combat online fraud and build public confidence in digital services.
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The call was made by Deputy Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Mohammed Adams Sukparu, during the launch of the National Community Media Cyber Capability Building Project (NCMCCBP) in Accra.
The project is being implemented by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) in partnership with the Africa Centre for Digital Transformation (ACDT), with funding from the Government of the Czech Republic.
Media have a critical role in cybersecurity education
According to Mr Sukparu, journalists and media organisations have an important responsibility in helping citizens understand the growing risks associated with the digital environment. Media Urged to Champion Cybersecurity Reporting in Ghana.
He explained that accurate reporting on cybercrime can help prevent people from becoming victims of online fraud, while public education can encourage safer behaviour on digital platforms.
The Deputy Minister said the media must therefore go beyond reporting cyber incidents and contribute actively to cybersecurity awareness.
He noted that Ghana’s digital transformation agenda depends on citizens having confidence in online services and businesses being able to conduct secure digital transactions.
Cybersecurity reporting can protect citizens
The government believes that stronger cybersecurity reporting in Ghana can help the public identify threats before they become victims. Media Urged to Champion Cybersecurity Reporting in Ghana.
Cybercriminals often study their potential victims before attempting to defraud them. This can involve monitoring information people share publicly, including details about their families, relationships and personal interests.
Cyber Security Authority Director-General Divine Selase Agbeti urged the public to be cautious when sharing personal information online.
He also highlighted the role of journalists in raising awareness about emerging cyber threats and promoting safe online practices.
Community media identified as key partners
Community media organisations are expected to play a particularly important role in the initiative because of their extensive reach and ability to communicate with audiences in local languages.
For many people outside Ghana’s major urban centres, community radio and other local media platforms remain important sources of information.
The project therefore seeks to equip community and mainstream media practitioners with practical knowledge about cyber hygiene, online safety and responsible digital behaviour.
Czech Republic supports Ghana’s cybersecurity efforts
Czech Ambassador to Ghana Pavel Bílek reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s cybersecurity development and media capacity.
He said the partnership between Ghana and the Czech Republic includes technical cooperation, capacity building and specialised media training aimed at strengthening Ghana’s cyber resilience.
The initiative comes at a time when Ghana continues to expand its digital economy, with programmes involving digital skills, artificial intelligence and technology-driven public services.
However, officials say such investments will deliver their full benefits only when citizens can trust the systems they use.
A stronger media response to cybercrime
The focus on cybersecurity reporting in Ghana is expected to help journalists produce more accurate and responsible reports about online fraud, cybercrime and other digital threats.
Better-informed journalists can provide the public with practical information about how cybercriminals operate and how individuals can protect themselves.
Ultimately, the initiative seeks to strengthen cooperation between the media, cybersecurity authorities and other institutions while ensuring that accurate information reaches citizens across Ghana. Media Urged to Champion Cybersecurity Reporting in Ghana.
